Maaher: Mothers’ Homes, Cultures, and Everything in Between

Meghna Mathew | November 6, 2024 | Heritage

In a rapidly globalising world, we often seek avenues to connect with our past — our heritage-laden languages, attire, traditions, festivals, food, and so much more. How does one best capture and relive the memories that shaped them?

Sisters Ankita and Arpita Cudappah are Pune thoroughbreds on a journey to reconnect with their Maharashtrian culture — and while they are at it, they aim to share it with the world. They founded the brand Maaher (in Marathi, “mother’s home”) to do just this — reach back into the treasure trove of the wondrous heritage of Maharashtra, and create a platform for the world to revel in the same. “From the variety of food, music, and clothing to the diversity of its people, we believe in showcasing how this rich culture can enhance everyone’s lives,” say the founders.

“Our foremothers were the conduits of culture — imparting with us the traditions and values we imbibed. In their homes, and under their watchful and love-filled gaze, we grew up to be who we are today.”

As inspiration from our maternal home, Maaher embodies the spirit of a bold woman, who paved the way for generations that follow. It represents a nurturing being, who stands for more than her traditional role — she symbolises power, and she is divine. Maternal strength and integrity are an integral part of the brand’s identity, and the founding sisters embrace this gracefully. They say, “We envision Maaher as a symbol of a woman’s unaltered identity. In a world where everyone strives to conform to beauty, fashion, and career norms, Maaher represents an identity free from judgement.”

(L-R) A vernacular Maharashtrian home, wada; MV Dhurandhar’s painting of a Maharashtrian wedding

The journey to share their culture begins with premium Paithani sarees: “While fast fashion is currently in vogue, we believe that women will soon seek fashion that is unique to their culture and tells a story,” they say. Paithanis have a layered history of their own — today, they are unmistakable with their unique motifs and weaves in signature colours. India is a land of varied sarees from across the country, and while a couple of names such as Banarasi and Kanjeevaram lead the way in popularity, the founding duo aims to encourage people to include Paithani sarees in the list. They say, “We feel that other forms, such as Paithani, are losing their lustre. Maaher aims to achieve a twofold objective: offering unique sarees, rich in history while reviving Paithani and other lost arts of the country.”

At Maaher, the inspiration from the women who came before them translates overtly into their presence. It is a mark of what sets them apart, and today, the modern consumer is attuned to imbibe and seek out authenticity. The founders say, “Today’s customers are more informed than ever. In the 21st century, it’s impossible to build a product without honesty. Therefore, our endeavour has always been to stay true to our beliefs, ensuring that our customers can trust us.”

(L-R) Maaher’s Paithanis in Gulaal, Pamdura, and Neel

The sisters are in service of the culture they deeply admire. They say, “Just as Maharashtrian culture embodies its rich history, diversity, and beauty, we aspire for our brand to reflect these values. We aim to engage not only with women but with people across the entire country in various ways.”

With a true will to sensitively and responsibly share it with the world, Ankita and Arpita Cuddapah bring the best their culture has to offer — from their Maaher, to yours.

Explore Maaher’s wondrous paithanis here.

Words by Meghna Mathew.

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